Avg High
San Diego in May
Verdict
In San Diego, May has a distinct spring feel. As the season moves along, the weather is warming up. You can usually expect a mild month that feels reliable day to day. Midday sun can be a bigger factor than people expect.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Midday sun is often the main comfort factor when you are outside.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
14h
What to expect
- Temperature feel - Easygoing temperatures with a noticeable cool-down after sunset. The “feels like” is usually in line with the air temperature.
- Rain pattern - Mostly rain-free. Showers tend to come in pulses rather than lingering. Showers pop up now and then.
- Midday sun - Midday sun is intense. You can burn surprisingly quickly, so sun protection is strongly recommended. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
- Exposure - A steady breeze, and you’ll notice sudden bursts, especially near the coast or ridgelines. A light outer layer helps when you’re in the shade.
May in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in San Diego.
Hottest (avg)
#7 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#8 / 12
Daylight Hours
#3 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#1 / 12
Highest UV
#3 / 12
Most Humid
#7 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 13.9 hours
- UV index (max)
- 9
- Typical sun hours
- 04:49 – 18:40
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 3
- Cloud cover
- 48%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 75%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit San Diego?
Typical May days in San Diego reach highs of 20°C (68°F) with nights around 14°C (57°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. Overall, May sits in the middle of the San Diego climate range.
What are temperatures like in May?
Daytime temperatures in May typically peak near 20°C (68°F), while nights drop to around 14°C (57°F). Expect mild afternoons and cool evenings.
How much does it rain in May?
Rainfall in May averages 12 mm (0.47 in) across roughly 3 days. Overall it is a mostly dry time of year, so showers are usually brief rather than all-day downpours.
How many hours of daylight are there in May?
You can expect about 14 hours of daylight in May. Sunrise is typically around 04:49 and sunset near 18:40. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.
How strong is the sun in May?
UV levels frequently reach very high levels (around 9), so strong sun protection is essential, especially around midday.
Is it windy in May?
In May, average wind speeds are around 10 km/h (6 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 39 km/h (24 mph). On the ground, it is a gentle to moderate breeze is common, but stronger winds are not frequent.